What a happy coincidence.We’ve got this desire to hike, we had an appointment in Albuquerque, and the famous International Balloon Fiesta was taking place.Made for a grand day!

We would never have chosen to hike La Luz trail to the Sandia Crest as part of our repertoire this year.It just wouldn’t have occurred to us.But we needed a hike, and there we were, and it was the most gorgeous day imaginable!

In order to see the hot air balloons lifting off while we hiked, we were at the trail head at six in the morning.Donning the hats, gloves and head lamps – and with coyotes yipping out a greeting – we took off in the dark.

What an amazing trail.High desert at the beginning… a variety of cactus, cedar, great rocks.Rugged beauty.

We climbed higher and higher, back and forth through a sea of pink granite, up and up, into the aspens and pines.And all the while, we had the most magnificent view of the plains below, massive rock cliffs, blue mountains in the distance.

This hike was beyond our dreams, and we couldn’t stop marveling over our great fortune to experience such a thrilling day.

It was 4000 feet up, and another 8 miles under our belts.Icing on the cake for this hike… there’s a wonderful restaurant at the top, and a tram to ride down.(Which, if you ask me, was the most treacherous part of the entire trek!)

We’ve had one fantastic season of hiking in the Land of Enchantment.From Sierra Blanca by Ruidoso to Hermit’s Peak near Las Vegas… from Wheeler Peak above Taos to the Sandia Crest overlooking Albuquerque… we have seen some spectacular vistas.

It’s been a grand blessing to take John Muir’s advice.

“Keep close to Nature’s heart… and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.”

Wow, Sandy, that looks so rugged! Like you or Gary might fall off into the beauty at any moment. But knowing you’re a sensible pair, I’m sure there’s a path there at every turn. How long did it take to make the 8 miles?

Yes, a wonderful trail, and lots of people out enjoying it. It took us 5 1/2 hours to get to the top, but we’re always slow going… enjoying the journey, stopping for pictures, smelling the cactus.. you know.